ABPI (Ankle Brachial Pressure Index) Resources

The Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) is a simple, non-invasive test used to detect peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in the legs by comparing systolic blood pressure at the ankle and arm. It helps determine if compression therapy is safe by excluding significant arterial disease. PAD, caused by the buildup of fatty plaque (atherosclerosis), narrows or blocks arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and even limb amputation if untreated. Early PAD detection reduces morbidity and mortality. ABPI is essential in assessing lower limb wounds, especially venous leg ulcers, and should be conducted within two weeks of presentation. Compression therapy, the gold standard for venous leg ulcers, may be contraindicated if PAD is present, requiring specialist evaluation. A normal ABPI ranges from 0.9 to 1.4, but it is only one aspect of a holistic assessment, which includes patient history, physical exams, and clinical judgment.

Interpreting the Ankle Brachial Index

ABI Value	Interpretation	Recommendation
Greater than 1.4	Calcification / Vessel Hardening	Refer to Vascular Specialist
1.0 - 1.4	Normal	None
0.9 - 1.0	Acceptable	None
0.8 0.9	Some Arterial Disease	Treat risk factors
0.5-0.8	Moderate arterial disease	Refer to Vascular Specialist
Less than 0.5	Severe Arterial Disease	Refer to Vascular Specialist